Root Canal Treatment: Saving Teeth and Relieving Pain Root canal treatment, also known as endodontic therapy, is a dental procedure performed to repair and save a tooth that is badly decayed or infected. The procedure involves removing the damaged or infected pulp from inside the tooth, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then filling and sealing the space. Root canal treatment is crucial for relieving pain, preventing further infection, and saving the natural tooth. Why Is Root Canal Treatment Needed? Decay: When tooth decay is left untreated, it can progress deep into the tooth, reaching the pulp. Once the pulp is infected or damaged, it cannot heal on its own, requiring root canal treatment to save the tooth. Infection: If a tooth becomes infected due to decay or trauma, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissues, causing pain, swelling, and potential abscess formation. Root canal treatment is necessary to remove the infection and prevent its spread.